The Wildcats travel to WIN Entertainment Centre without both starting guards, with Damian Martin (jaw) and Jarrod Kenny (hamstring) out for at least the next few weeks.

The defending premiers are also still reeling from American import Andre Ingram’s sudden departure on mental grounds, even as axed recruit Jaron Johnson returns.

It means the club will also be forced to rely on development player Corban Wroe and injury replacement Jackson Hussey when they face the Hawks.

Norton says Illawarra, who have lost their past four games should take the game to the Wildcats inexperienced duo.

"I think our eyes should light up,” he said.

"They have a development player stepping up, Corban Wroe. He has been around their team for a few years now so he knows their system. But I think we can get after some guards. Play our trapping defence and put them under pressure.

"I think if we can do that we will definitely wear them down over the four quarters."

The match comes just a week after the Wildcats continued their dominance over Illawarra in Perth with a 80-73 triumph.

The Hawks went to Sydney three days later and put in their worst performance of the season in a crushing 90-73 loss.

Friday’s rematch against Perth provides Illawarra with an immediate opportunity to bounce back into the winner’s circle.

"That is probably the best thing about the NBL. It is a pretty short turn around so you can't stew on it too long," Norton said.

"You need to assess it, review it and then move on. That's what we are doing and if we can come out with plenty of energy to start the game I think that's going to help."

Illawarra head into the match in second last on the ladder with a disappointing 1-4 record. The Wildcats have been rock solid again to start the 2016-17 campaign and are 4-1 as they look to defend another NBL title.